Brazil vs. Korea Republic in the 2012 Olympics Soccer Semi-Finals: Why Brazil Will Win

The match between Brazil will prove to be the first major test that the Samba Kings will face in this tournament.

The Selecao followed up a strong group stage campaign with an extremely disconcerting performance against Honduras. The pre-tournament favorites were outplayed in the early going and found themselves behind in just the 12^th minute. Brazil would eventually equalize and win the match, but not until they had a man advantage on Honduras. Even when Brazil had the man power advantage, Honduras was still able to take the lead and endanger Brazil's campaign.

Despite an awful quarter finals display, there is still hope that Brazil can win their date with Korea. Here are the reasons why.

Offensive Juggernaut

Brazil has scored 12 goals in four matches. They have scored three goals in every single one of their matches. Brazil has gotten goals from six different players including seven between Neymar and Leandro Damiao. No other team thus far has found a way to stop Brazil's offense, despite their best efforts. Through the group stage, Honduras had only allowed two goals in three games. But they gave up three to Brazil in one match.

In a battle of offensive attrition against Korea, Brazil clearly has the edge. Korea only has three goals through four contests, but have only scored in two of their four matches.

Superior Talent

Neymar, Pato, Damiao, Danilo, Rafael, Oscar, Hulk... the list goes on and on. This team is loaded and showcases a class of talent that many believe will be the squad showcased at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Whether or not this squad is ready for that stage is debatable, but the upside is unquestionable and seemingly mountainous.

Kora is stacked offensively, but no one will confuse them for a World Cup squad. On talent alone, Brazil can win this match.

Determination to Prove Themselves

They didn't show any against Honduras, but they still pulled out the win and are ever closer to winning that elusive Olympic Gold for their nation. An entire nation is awaiting this accomplishment and these players want nothing more than to please them and in the process prove themselves as the next elite generation of Brazilian soccer. Since 2002, Brazilian soccer has been seen as a disappointment for its weak showings at major tournaments and this team is well aware of this fact. They want nothing more than to prove the world wrong and win back the love for the Selecao.

Disagree? Click HERE to read why Korea will beat Brazil.